James Bond Author Calls Out "Big Mistake" of Daniel Craig's Final Movie

Novelist Anthony Horowitz Questions The Decision To Kill Off 007 in No Time to Die

LONDON: Acclaimed novelist Anthony Horowitz, who has penned several official James Bond books, has publicly criticized the ending of Daniel Craig’s final 007 film, "No Time to Die" (2021), labeling the decision to kill the spy as a "big mistake." Horowitz suggests that the unprecedented move has created a significant challenge for the future of the long-running franchise.

In a recent interview, Horowitz, who was selected by the estate of creator Ian Fleming to write three Bond novels, addressed the controversial climax of Craig’s tenure, where James Bond perishes on screen.

"The last time we saw Bond (in No Time to Die) he was poisoned and blown to smithereens – how will they get past the fact he is dead with a capital D?" Horowitz remarked. "I think that was a mistake, because Bond is a legend. He belongs to everybody, he is eternal – except in that film."

The Challenge of Resurrection

The author elaborated on the logistical difficulties that Bond’s death creates for the next installment. Traditionally, a new actor simply takes over the role, implying a soft reboot or a continuation with flexible continuity. However, No Time to Die marked the first time the character has definitively died within the film series.

Horowitz went on to explain his own reluctance to tackle the next script given this constraint: "If I was asked tomorrow to write the script, I wouldn't be able to do it. Where would you start? You can't have him waking up in the shower and saying it was all a dream."

A New Era for 007

The novelist's comments reignite the debate that began immediately following the film's release. Many saw the on-screen sacrifice as a fittingly dramatic conclusion to Craig's highly serialized storyline, which emphasized the finality of his Bond's journey. Others, including Horowitz, argue that an essential element of the 007 brand is the eternity and interchangeability of the agent.

Despite the criticism, the next James Bond film is confirmed to be a full relaunch of the series, featuring a new actor and a storyline that will not directly follow the events of No Time to Die. However, Horowitz’s concern highlights the unique narrative hurdle that the new creative team must overcome: moving forward without completely dismissing the emotional weight of Daniel Craig’s very final goodbye.